NEWS

Embrace the Revolution: Programmed becomes the first business to back WA

MEDIA RELEASE

24 April 2018

Embrace the Revolution: Programmed becomes the first business to back WA

Programmed - a company with strong West Australian roots and a global reach - has become the Western Force’s first major partner for 2018.

With the West Australian rugby union team poised to take on the world in the revolutionary new World Series Rugby competition, Programmed and the Western Force are natural partners.

A leading provider of staffing and maintenance services with more than 20,000 employees across Australia and New Zealand, Programmed will display its logo proudly on both sleeves of the men’s and women’s playing jumpers.

The World Series Rugby tournament will be fast moving, free scoring and full-on and, in its first year, will see the Western Force return to the field in seven home matches.

World Series Rugby creator Andrew Forrest AO said he was thrilled to welcome Programmed as a partner because it understands the concept is about more than sport.

“If you back Western Australia, you back the Western Force,” Mr Forrest said.

“Programmed is the first company to back this team and our state in this way and I thank the whole Programmed family for investing in Western Australia with this impressive show of leadership.”

A strong advocate for gender equality and opportunity, Programmed will also have its logo displayed prominently on the back of the women’s jumper.

“Western Force is a great example of the power and influence a club can have on shaping the character of young men and women in our communities.

“Programmed is proud to stand with Western Force to ensure the great work of the past is not lost; that young boys and girls across WA can develop into great men and women through participation in rugby; and that the pathway from junior rugby to the highest level for men and women in WA is there for all to see.”

The partnership was announced by Mr Sutherland and Western Force CEO Nick Marvin at the home of the team, nib Stadium in Perth, where Force players, media and community members kicked goals for grassroots rugby, with every goal kicked representing a $1000 contribution from Programmed and the Force. - ENDS -

Kicks off Friday, May 4 at nib Stadium against 2016 Olympic Champion Fiji.

The 2018 season features seven invitation games, all at Perth’s nib Stadium. After tackling Fiji the Force will take on the New Zealand Crusaders, Japan, Hong Kong, Samoa, Tonga and Aussie rivals the Melbourne Rebels.

New initiatives on the field will result in less stoppage time and higher scores.

Serious off-field entertainment including fireworks and performers will create a genuine party atmosphere.